There’s nothing like a catchy, upbeat song that subverts its melody with a dark and depressing narrative. This spoonful-of-sugar method of delivering powerful pop with a bite is an age-old model, and doesn’t need to be reinvented in order to be successful. Bear Hands’ great track “Agora” is the recipe’s epitome. Jagged yet warm, the early 2014 single follows an individual who has overcome his fears of insularity and seclusion–it surely feels upbeat and optimistic, yet there’s anxiety in the lyrics and Dylan Rau’s vocals. So maybe Bear Hands is promoting an appreciation for solitary life and companionship, pain and pleasure, night and dark. Who cares–“Agora” is a blast of energy that’s meaningful with or without it’s contradictory messages and form.

And just in case it didn’t increase your heart rate and psych you up enough, Com Truise has blessed Bear Hands’ with a truly ecstatic remix of the song. Check it out below, and go get the group’s newest album Distraction, out now through Cantora Records.

Here is a deep house track from Philly’s own cosmic explorers Les Professionnels remixed by DC’s M.O.T.M. M.O.T.M. bring a touch of Krautrock spookiness to this mix, a hypnotic atmospheric build a top a locked-in groove. Suggested use: mid-party slow-burner to bring all Muscle Marys, Clones, Hipsters and War Criminals a little bit closer together. Enjoy.

We’re right smack in the middle of the warm months, smiles and beach songs time. Here is a track to elicit summertime joy tears, a sped up version of MJs 1979 classic “I Can’t Help it.” Shaped by the Norwegian God of Disco Todd Terje, this is about as good as music gets. Enjoy.